The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) announced the immediate suspension of former governor and ex-Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, over allegations of anti-party activities.
The suspension, pending a full investigation, follows a request by the Ilesa East Local Government APC Executive Committee, which urged the state leadership to address Aregbesola’s alleged conduct that reportedly undermined the party.
In a letter to Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal, the committee accused Aregbesola of factionalizing the party by creating the Omoluabi Caucus, collaborating with opposition parties to destabilize the APC, criticizing senior party figures, and failing to support APC activities in Osun State since the 2019 elections.
The Osun State APC Executive Committee then informed the national APC leadership, represented by Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, of its decision to suspend Aregbesola and initiate disciplinary proceedings.
The official resolution, dated October 22, was signed by APC Chairman Lawal and Secretary Kamar Olabisi and cited Article 21 of the APC Constitution as grounds for the suspension.
The statement read: “Following complaints of anti-party activities leveled against Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola by the Ilesa East Local Government Executive Committee, the State Executive Committee (SEC), after reviewing the allegations and in accordance with the powers vested in it by Article 21(3)(vi)(c) of the party’s Constitution, hereby suspends Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola from the party pending the outcome of an investigation.”
Aregbesola faces multiple charges, including alleged collusion with opposition forces, public criticism of party leaders, and failure to support APC initiatives within Osun.
The committee has given Aregbesola 48 hours to submit a written response and will deliver its findings within 14 days.
Emphasizing its commitment to discipline, the Osun APC warned against actions that could disrupt party unity, stating, “The party will not hesitate to enforce disciplinary measures on any member found violating the party’s constitution or engaging in anti-party conduct.”